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    • Food Science

    Food Science Courses Online

    Study food science for understanding food properties and safety. Learn about food chemistry, microbiology, and processing techniques.

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    Explore the Food Science Course Catalog

    • O

      Olay

      Cosmetic Formulation Science

      Skills you'll gain: Laboratory Experience, Design Specifications, Chemistry, Safety Training, Product Testing, Record Keeping, Product Development, Personal Care, Regulatory Compliance, Systems Of Measurement

      4.7
      Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
      ·
      96 reviews

      Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

    • I

      IBM

      AI Foundations for Everyone

      Skills you'll gain: Prompt Engineering, Large Language Modeling, Generative AI, Artificial Intelligence, ChatGPT, Data Ethics, Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI/ML), OpenAI, Workflow Management, Deep Learning, Machine Learning, Artificial Neural Networks, Governance, Automation, Application Deployment, Business Transformation, IBM Cloud, Applied Machine Learning, Program Development, Computer Vision

      4.7
      Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
      ·
      27K reviews

      Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

    • D

      Dartmouth College

      Introduction to Environmental Science

      Skills you'll gain: Environment, Environmental Issue, Environmental Science, Demography, Energy and Utilities, Water Resources, Environmental Policy, Biology, Environment and Resource Management, Environmental Engineering, Land Management, Nutrition and Diet, Electric Power Systems, Nutrition Education, Systems Thinking, Natural Resource Management, Social Studies, Physics, Human Development, Physical Science

      4.7
      Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
      ·
      352 reviews

      Beginner · Specialization · 1 - 3 Months

    • I

      IBM

      Tools for Data Science

      Skills you'll gain: Jupyter, Data Visualization Software, Data Science, GitHub, Big Data, R Programming, Statistical Programming, Application Programming Interface (API), Machine Learning, Cloud Computing, Git (Version Control System), Version Control, Other Programming Languages, Query Languages

      4.5
      Rating, 4.5 out of 5 stars
      ·
      30K reviews

      Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

    • I
      U
      I

      Multiple educators

      Data Science Foundations

      Skills you'll gain: Dashboard, Pseudocode, Jupyter, Algorithms, Data Literacy, Data Mining, Pandas (Python Package), Correlation Analysis, Web Scraping, NumPy, Probability & Statistics, Predictive Modeling, Big Data, Automation, Data Visualization Software, Data Collection, Data Science, GitHub, Machine Learning Algorithms, Unsupervised Learning

      4.6
      Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
      ·
      112K reviews

      Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

    • I

      IBM

      Applied Software Engineering Fundamentals

      Skills you'll gain: Software Development Life Cycle, Software Architecture, Linux Commands, Unit Testing, Bash (Scripting Language), Shell Script, Git (Version Control System), GitHub, Software Design, Version Control, File Management, Jupyter, Scrum (Software Development), Application Deployment, Collaborative Software, Automation, Flask (Web Framework), Web Scraping, Python Programming, Software Testing

      4.6
      Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
      ·
      47K reviews

      Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

    • I

      IBM

      Data Science Fundamentals with Python and SQL

      Skills you'll gain: Dashboard, SQL, Descriptive Statistics, Jupyter, Statistical Analysis, Data Analysis, Probability Distribution, Pandas (Python Package), Data Visualization Software, Statistics, Data Visualization, Statistical Hypothesis Testing, Web Scraping, Relational Databases, Stored Procedure, Databases, Automation, Data Science, GitHub, Python Programming

      Build toward a degree

      4.6
      Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
      ·
      71K reviews

      Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

    • G

      Google

      Foundations: Data, Data, Everywhere

      Skills you'll gain: Data Ethics, Data Analysis, Data-Driven Decision-Making, Google Sheets, Spreadsheet Software, Analytical Skills, Data Sharing, Data Cleansing, Data Processing, Data Visualization Software, SQL, Data Management

      4.8
      Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
      ·
      115K reviews

      Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

    • G

      Google

      Foundations of Cybersecurity

      Skills you'll gain: Cybersecurity, Security Controls, Cyber Attacks, Security Management, Cyber Security Strategy, Incident Response, Cyber Risk, Security Information and Event Management (SIEM), Information Assurance, Data Ethics, Network Analysis, Ethical Standards And Conduct

      Build toward a degree

      4.9
      Rating, 4.9 out of 5 stars
      ·
      34K reviews

      Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

    • J

      Johns Hopkins University

      Data Science

      Skills you'll gain: Shiny (R Package), Rmarkdown, Exploratory Data Analysis, Regression Analysis, Leaflet (Software), Version Control, Statistical Analysis, R Programming, Data Manipulation, Data Cleansing, Data Science, Statistical Inference, Predictive Modeling, Statistical Hypothesis Testing, Data Wrangling, Data Visualization, Plotly, Machine Learning Algorithms, Plot (Graphics), Knitr

      4.5
      Rating, 4.5 out of 5 stars
      ·
      51K reviews

      Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

    • Status: Free
      Free
      U

      University of Amsterdam

      Introduction to Communication Science

      Skills you'll gain: Culture, Interpersonal Communications, Media and Communications, Liberal Arts, Social Studies, Research, Ancient History, Anthropology, European History, Qualitative Research, Research Methodologies

      4.7
      Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
      ·
      1.9K reviews

      Mixed · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

    • D

      DeepLearning.AI

      Deep Learning

      Skills you'll gain: Computer Vision, Deep Learning, Image Analysis, Natural Language Processing, Artificial Neural Networks, Tensorflow, Supervised Learning, Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI/ML), Large Language Modeling, Artificial Intelligence, Applied Machine Learning, PyTorch (Machine Learning Library), Machine Learning, Debugging, Performance Tuning, Keras (Neural Network Library), Python Programming, Machine Learning Algorithms, Linear Algebra, Analysis

      Build toward a degree

      4.8
      Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
      ·
      146K reviews

      Intermediate · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

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    In summary, here are 10 of our most popular food science courses

    • Cosmetic Formulation Science: Olay
    • AI Foundations for Everyone: IBM
    • Introduction to Environmental Science: Dartmouth College
    • Tools for Data Science: IBM
    • Data Science Foundations: IBM
    • Applied Software Engineering Fundamentals: IBM
    • Data Science Fundamentals with Python and SQL: IBM
    • Foundations: Data, Data, Everywhere: Google
    • Foundations of Cybersecurity: Google
    • Data Science: Johns Hopkins University

    Frequently Asked Questions about Food Science

    An education in food science covers scientific principles relating to the preparation, consumption, enjoyment, sustainability, and health components of human sustenance. Courses reveal how our physiological makeup applies to cooked food, geographical and cultural influences on food, and rationales behind food preparation. Food Science also covers public health crises, such as obesity and Type 2 Diabetes, and their link to unhealthful eating.

    Food Science is becoming increasingly important to learn as the consumption of heavily processed foods proliferates, and as culture shifts away from the preparation of food at home. It’s crucial that learners interested in the field gain expertise in the prevention of diet-related diseases, the ability to create meals based on scientific principles, and methodologies related to sustainable food production. ‎

    Learners who study Food Science can enjoy career opportunities in gastronomy and health-related fields, such as Chef or Nutritional Therapist, as well as other roles that incorporate food-based skills. The myriad of jobs available include Food Scientist, Quality Assurance Manager, Food Toxicologist, Product Development Scientist, Scientific Laboratory Technician, Biochemist, Flavor Chemist, Food Ingredient Sales, Food Inspector, Sensory Scientist, and many other roles related to the study or handling of food.‎

    Online courses are a great way to earn credits, or boost professional development, in Food Science. Courses offered through Coursera include practical discussions about food and the environment in which we consume it, helping learners have the tools they need to distinguish between foods that will support or harm their health. Sciences such as biology, chemistry, and physics are covered, and how recent changes in food have greatly altered the way our bodies process it. Wider issues in sustainable manufacturing and bioethics are also covered, as well as how these technologies translate into real-world applications that benefit society and our daily lives.

    Assignments in Food Science courses show learners how to appreciate the scientific basis of various recipes, develop their own recipes, recognize the influence of the material world on our five senses, and understand the art of integrating science into cooking and dining. Successful learners will be able to present their rationales for healthy eating, create a long-term weight management plan, practice science-backed cooking methodologies, and examine ways to ensure a growing human population is fed.‎

    Because food science combines so many topics, a background in chemistry, biology, biochemistry, agriculture, chemical engineering, nutrition, microbiology, physics, and physics can all be helpful if you're planning to study the topic. And, of course, any background you have working in the food industry can be helpful. Even if you simply worked an entry-level job in the food industry—such as a stocker in a grocery store or as a server in a restaurant—you will have some knowledge to help you better understand food science. Many food scientists work in labs, research institutions, and universities, so a background working in these settings may be helpful too.‎

    People suited for roles in food science should have a mind for and an interest in science. But you'll also need an interest in people and their health. After all, much of food science is determining how to get food from its origin to the public without problems. You'll also need to be a stickler for details, especially when it comes to safety and hygiene. You must be able to work independently as well as part of a team, which means you'll need good communication skills. Food scientists and those who work in the food science industry will also need some background in computer science, business, and math.‎

    A professional or personal interest in science or the food industry is a good indicator that learning food science is right for you. You may be considering a career in the industry, or you may already work in a related field and want to advance your career. Perhaps you're a farmer, nutritionist, food manufacturer, or food marketer and want to know more about the science behind the food we eat so you can apply it to your job. Even as a consumer, learning about food science can help you shop smarter and eat healthier. You may learn about topics like nutrition, growing food, the evolution of food, manufacturing, and packaging.‎

    Online Food Science courses offer a convenient and flexible way to enhance your knowledge or learn new Food Science skills. Choose from a wide range of Food Science courses offered by top universities and industry leaders tailored to various skill levels.‎

    When looking to enhance your workforce's skills in Food Science, it's crucial to select a course that aligns with their current abilities and learning objectives. Our Skills Dashboard is an invaluable tool for identifying skill gaps and choosing the most appropriate course for effective upskilling. For a comprehensive understanding of how our courses can benefit your employees, explore the enterprise solutions we offer. Discover more about our tailored programs at Coursera for Business here.‎

    This FAQ content has been made available for informational purposes only. Learners are advised to conduct additional research to ensure that courses and other credentials pursued meet their personal, professional, and financial goals.

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